Tourism – Eco-friendly night stay plans set for Kambalakonda Sanctuary
Tourism – Residents of Visakhapatnam and visitors to the coastal city may soon find it easier to enjoy forest surroundings without travelling long distances, as the Forest Department is preparing to introduce overnight eco-tourism facilities at Kambalakonda Wildlife Sanctuary. The initiative is expected to bring a nature-based experience within city limits, offering a convenient alternative to remote forest destinations.
Sanctuary Development Gains Momentum
Situated within the Eastern Ghats and surrounded by urban development, Kambalakonda Wildlife Sanctuary is undergoing significant improvements under the Government of India’s Nagar Van Yojana. Spread across around 71 square kilometres, the sanctuary is gradually becoming an important eco-tourism hub that balances conservation with recreational opportunities.
Authorities have already invested approximately Rs 2 crore in developing the Kambalakonda Nagaravanam area, which has begun drawing steady footfall. On average, the site receives over 200 visitors daily, with numbers rising to nearly 500 during weekends, indicating growing public interest in accessible nature experiences.
Local Communities Involved in Management
To ensure smooth operations and support livelihoods, the Forest Department has engaged 25 individuals from nearby tribal communities. This approach not only creates employment opportunities but also strengthens conservation efforts by involving people familiar with the ecosystem.
Officials believe that such community participation will help maintain ecological balance while promoting responsible tourism practices within the sanctuary.
Plans for Night Stays and Trekking Routes
According to forest officials, visitors will soon be able to stay overnight in eco-friendly huts within the sanctuary. These accommodations will be available through booking packages and are designed to minimise environmental impact.
In addition, trekking trails of varying lengths—3 km, 5 km, and 7 km—are being developed to suit different age groups and fitness levels. Shorter routes are expected to attract families and casual visitors, while longer trails will cater to those seeking a more immersive outdoor experience.
Recreational and Nature-Based Attractions
The sanctuary already offers several attractions, including bird-watching towers, nature walk paths, a wooden bridge, rope activities, boating options, scenic viewpoints, and designated picnic areas. These features are intended to provide a mix of relaxation and adventure within a natural setting.
Currently, five guest rooms have been completed, and plans are in place to add five more in the next phase. Authorities have clarified that all structures are temporary or semi-permanent to ensure they do not disrupt the forest ecosystem.
Rich Biodiversity and Unique Landscape
Located between the Simhachalam hill range and the Gambheeram reservoir, Kambalakonda Wildlife Sanctuary features a distinctive ecological environment classified as dry evergreen forest. It supports a wide range of flora and fauna, including jackals, civets, rabbits, mongoose, spotted deer, sambars, and several snake species.
Birdlife is also notable, with species such as the Indian Golden Oriole, Banded Bay Cuckoo, and Indian Peafowl commonly sighted. The sanctuary’s biodiversity is further enhanced by seasonal flowering trees and a variety of butterflies, making it an attractive destination for nature enthusiasts.
Integrated Tourism Plans Under Consideration
To expand the appeal of the project, officials are exploring combined tourism packages that link the sanctuary with nearby attractions such as Indira Gandhi Zoological Park, Kailasagiri, and the Eastern Ghats Biodiversity Centre.
Under this proposal, visitors could opt for a single package covering multiple destinations, including an overnight stay at Kambalakonda, instead of visiting each site separately. A detailed project report is currently being prepared in coordination with planning authorities to secure further funding from state or central governments.